Derelict church fire now deemed ‘non-suspicious’ by police

Police

Victoria Bull

Police have confirmed they will not be investigating a fire at a disused church in Bennetts End.

The blaze at the former Nash Mills Methodist Church – which has been earmarked for the potential development of a new mosque – was initially suspected to be an arson attack by fire crews who spent half an hour putting out the flames on Friday morning.

But after police attended the scene, spoke with the property owner and liaised with the fire service, the frire was determined non-suspicious so there will be no further investigation.

No serious damage was caused during the incident, which followed a fire in the open at the same location back in September.

Pre-application plans suggest a new mosque and incorporated community centre could be built at the Barnacres Road site.